First responders rescue horse from flooded creek near Marengo, Illinois

The horse was swept away overnight and found standing in cold floodwaters about 600 feet from shore.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 2:18pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

First responders in Marengo, Illinois rescued a horse that had been swept away by floodwaters and was standing in a cold, overflowing creek. The horse was suffering from significant hypothermia, but was rescued by firefighters, sheriff's deputies, and a veterinarian who waded into the water to provide care. The horse was then guided across the 15-foot deep creek and transported to a veterinary facility for further treatment.

Why it matters

Extreme weather events like heavy storms and flooding can pose serious risks to livestock and other animals, requiring coordinated emergency response efforts to rescue stranded or endangered creatures. This incident highlights the importance of first responder training and preparedness for water rescues, as well as the need for livestock owners to have emergency plans in place to protect their animals during natural disasters.

The details

Early Saturday morning, the Marengo Fire & Rescue Districts were called for an animal water rescue after a horse was found standing in Coon Creek, about 600 feet from the nearest shore. The creek had overflowed its banks during recent storms, and the horse was believed to have been swept away overnight Friday into Saturday. First responders used a boat to reach the horse, while a veterinarian and other personnel waded into the cold water to provide care. Swift water technicians then guided the horse across the 15-foot deep creek to safety on the roadway. The horse was suffering from significant hypothermia but was able to stand independently and begin eating again after being transported to a veterinary facility.

  • Early Saturday morning, first responders were called to the scene.
  • Late Saturday afternoon, the horse was moved into a trailer and transported to a veterinary facility.

The players

Marengo Fire & Rescue Districts

The local fire and rescue department that responded to the emergency call and coordinated the horse rescue operation.

McHenry County Sheriff's Office

The county sheriff's deputies who assisted the fire department in the rescue efforts.

Veterinarian

The veterinary professional who waded into the cold floodwaters to provide medical care and assessment of the rescued horse.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The rescued horse remains under veterinary care, and its condition is still considered precarious, but it has begun to show signs of improvement by standing independently and eating again.

The takeaway

This dramatic rescue operation highlights the critical role that first responders play in protecting both human and animal life during extreme weather events. The coordinated efforts of firefighters, deputies, and veterinary professionals were essential in saving the horse from the dangerously cold and fast-moving floodwaters, demonstrating the importance of emergency preparedness and response capabilities in rural and agricultural communities.